MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The Federal Government of Somalia has announced its intention to proceed with a contentious election in Jubaland State, including Kismayo, the interim capital of the state.
The announcement was made by Senator Abdullahi Ismail Fartag, Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, who is currently in the Gedo region holding meetings with clan elders, politicians, and security forces.
Tensions between the Federal Government and Jubaland authorities have been running high.
Earlier this month, Jubaland forces defeated Somali government troops in a confrontation in Raaskaambooni, and clashes were also reported in the Gedo region, which borders Ethiopia.
Despite the ongoing hostilities, Minister Fartag stated that the Federal Government is committed to holding elections administered by Mogadishu in Kismayo and six other cities within Jubaland, including Gedo, where the situation remains tense.
“We will ensure that a one-person, one-vote election takes place in Jubaland. That is what Ahmed Madobe does not want,” Fartag declared during a speech in Garbaharey, the regional capital of Gedo.
Last month, Jubaland held its state-level election in Kismayo, re-electing President Ahmed Madobe for another five-year term. It remains unclear how the Federal Government plans to implement its election amidst the current political and security challenges.